Cost of Living in Canada for International Students

Canada is often seen as a more affordable alternative to the US and UK, but living costs still vary significantly depending on the city and province you choose to study in. Toronto and Vancouver are the most expensive cities, with shared accommodation typically costing CAD 800 to 1,500 per month, while smaller cities can be far more affordable. Beyond rent, students should budget CAD 300 to 400 per month for groceries, and around CAD 100 for public transportation. International students are permitted to work up to 24 hours per week during academic sessions, which can meaningfully offset living costs. A Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC), currently around CAD 20,635, is required for most study permit applicants under the Student Direct Stream. With careful planning, most students find that Canada offers one of the best balances of education quality, immigration pathways, and manageable living costs.